I still cannot wrap my head around the fact that you are gone. You were fine one minute...and gone the next. Dad rushed you to the ER where they confirmed our worst fear. Your heart gave out, and now our hearts are completely broken.

Maxie, you joined our family almost 11 years ago as a small pup. Dad spent nearly all afternoon trying to catch you. Out in the country... obviously abandoned and left to make it on your own. You were so very fearful of everything...but who could blame you?! Humans had let you down.

Through the years, we worked really hard to gain your trust and your love. You would never allow anyone to get too close to you Maxie....although we really tried. Unfortunately, you never lost that fear completely...but I know in my heart, you loved us as much as we loved you.

You had your own way of showing your love...sometimes just by poking us in your Toller way... to let us know, hey, I'm here and I'm not going away! You knew we understood that was all you were capable of giving. It wasn't until the morning you died, that I got to hold you, my boy, really close to me for the first time.

We pray for you Maxie now that you found your way safely to the Bridge...where you join, Bennie, Kelsey, Sidney and Tater. Look for them, they will care for you and keep you safe.

Maxie you will be forever missed by dad and me and your furry brothers and sisters...especially Jackie who doesn't understand why you are no longer here to play with him!

We love you little Moo-mees... we'll see you again someday! Be happy and fearless! And...I hope you dance....